Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is a rich, cheesy, and ultra-comforting dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s made with ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and melted Velveeta cheese to create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how simple and satisfying this dish is. It’s a true one-pot comfort meal with hearty ground beef, melty cheese, and pasta that holds the sauce perfectly. There’s no need for fancy ingredients—just a few pantry staples and some Velveeta. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and always hits the spot when I want something warm and cheesy.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bowtie pasta (farfalle)
ground beef
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
Velveeta cheese, cubed
milk
beef broth
salt and pepper
paprika or Italian seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
directions
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I cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
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In a large skillet or deep pan, I cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I drain any excess fat.
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I stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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I lower the heat and add the milk, beef broth, and Velveeta cubes to the pan. I stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
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I season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices I like, then stir in the cooked pasta until well coated.
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I simmer everything for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce slightly, then serve warm with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4–6 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in around 30 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I add frozen peas or chopped spinach for a veggie boost. When I want more spice, I stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. I’ve also swapped ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and it still comes out delicious. For a creamier finish, I add a splash of heavy cream right at the end.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I add a splash of milk and warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The sauce thickens as it sits, so the extra liquid helps bring it back to that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Yes, I’ve made this with penne, rotini, and shells. Any short pasta that holds sauce well works great.
Does this recipe work with shredded cheese instead of Velveeta?
Velveeta gives it that ultra-smooth texture, but I’ve used a mix of shredded cheddar and cream cheese when I’m out—it’s still creamy, just a little thicker.
Is this a good make-ahead meal?
Absolutely. I make it ahead and store it in the fridge, then just reheat with a splash of milk when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this dish?
I don’t recommend freezing it, since the cheese sauce can separate and get grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.
How can I make it a little healthier?
I use lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Conclusion
Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is one of those quick, comforting meals that always brings smiles to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, and it comes together fast with simple ingredients. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or just craving something cozy, this dish always delivers.
Print
Ceamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Velveeta Beef Pasta with Bowtie Noodles is a quick and cozy one-pot dinner made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, melty Velveeta cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy ground beef pasta recipe is kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet or deep pan, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Reduce heat to low. Add milk, beef broth, and Velveeta cubes to the pan. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
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Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or Italian seasoning.
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
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Simmer for a few more minutes to thicken. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
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Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Add veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
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